The monthly meeting of the Bend-Chappel County Extension Education Clubs met Monday, June 11 at the Bend Methodist Church. The meeting opened with attendees sharing personal tips on how they save on energy costs. Some useful tips included: washing clothes in cold water, raising the temperature control on the air conditioner, opening windows versus running the a/c, installing a rain water capture system, and turning out the lights when not in use. The educational program “We Got The Power” was presented by Betty Wilson of the Simpson Creek EE Club. The information she provided is very enlightening on energy usage in the home and ways to conserve it. The following is a breakdown of how much energy is used in the home: Heating/Cooling – 43%, Water/Heating – 12%, Lighting – 11%, Electronics – 9%, Appliances – 9%, Refrigeration – 8%, Other – 8%. Ways to save on energy costs include the following tips. 1) Use a ceiling fan to circulate cool air in the summer and reverse it to circulate warm air in the winter. 2) Reduce phantom loads by unplugging cell phone chargers, toasters, etc. when not in use. 3) Don’t let ventilating fans run longer than needed as it sucks out cool air along with the odors. 4) Keep a refrigerator freezer full as it reduces the number of times the refrigerator motor runs, and don’t leave the door open any longer than necessary. 5) Use microwave ovens versus the conventional oven where possible. 6) Change a/c filters frequently. 7) Use dishwashers to wash dishes as it uses less water than hand washing of dishes. 8) Lower the water temperature on the hot water heater from 140 to 120 degrees.Plans for participation in the August EE Camp was discussed. Camp will be August 7&8 at the 4H Campgrounds in Brownwood with the theme “Christmas in August.” The meeting adjourned and refreshments were enjoyed by attendees.One of the primary purposes of EE Clubs is to develop in women and girls, a new enjoyment and satisfaction in the home and environment and more happiness in community life. Anyone interested in joining is always welcome. Information can be obtained through the County Extension Agent’s office at the Courthouse.